Of Sun, Sand & Surf: How To Mix Summer Cocktails Like An Expert

Fancy a beach holiday but are stuck in the city? No worries! I’ve got you covered with some cocktails that are essentially your beach vacation poured into a glass. Imagine the sun on your face, sand at your feet, and a gentle breeze—all encapsulated in a drink. We're diving into summer with a splash, using spirits that sing with the season's vibes, all from the likes of Tanqueray, Smirnoff, and Captain Morgan. So, pop on your sunnies and let’s get mixing.

Sunset Sangria: A Tanqueray Tale

Nothing screams summer like a Sangria, and we’re giving it a gin twist. Start with 30 ml of Tanqueray London Dry Gin for its botanical brightness. Mix in 60 ml of white wine, a splash of soda water for fizz, and throw in slices of orange, lemon, and a handful of berries. Let it sit, and what you have is a cocktail that tastes like sunset looks—absolutely stunning.

Smirnoff Surprise

For a vodka cocktail that comes straight to your glass from the shores of the Caribbean, grab 45 ml of Smirnoff No. 21 vodka and combine it with 90 ml of pineapple juice. Throw in 15 ml of premium coconut cream and a dash of lime juice. Shake it over ice, and serve it up with a pineapple wedge. It’s the perfect way to create the perfect beach day while sitting in the comfort of your home.

Captain Morgan’s Cooler

Speaking of the Caribbean, Captain Morgan Original Spiced Gold is here to make the party beachier. For this delicious cooler, mix 45 ml of Captain Morgan with 120 ml of ginger beer and the juice of half a lime. Serve over ice in a tall glass, garnished with a lime wheel and a sprig of mint. It’s refreshing, with just the right amount of spice—like finding that perfect spot in the shade after a cold dip in the ocean.

The Virgin Shoreline Spritz

Not in the mood for alcohol but still want to feel like you’re lounging by the sea? The JW Refreshing Mixer is here to save the day. Mix 120 ml of Johnnie Walker Refreshing Mixer with 60 ml of tonic water, a squeeze of grapefruit juice, and a dash of simple syrup. Add some grapefruit slices for garnish. It’s bright, it’s bubbly, and it’s brimming with beach vibes.

Tips for the Aspiring Beach Bartenders

Chill your glassware. This is the holy grail of efficient bartending. There’s nothing like sipping a cold drink from a frosty glass. It keeps your cocktail cool and adds that extra touch of holiday luxury.

Keep it fresh: Freshly squeezed juices can elevate your drink from good to ‘can I have another, please?’ Go local and shop at your neighbourhood stores to get the freshest produce.

Garnish generously: A well-chosen garnish can transform your drink, both aesthetically and flavour-wise. Plus, it’s your ticket to those picture-perfect summer vibes.